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Flying with Delta: Psychiatric Service Dog and Emotional Support Animal Policy Guide

Delta Airlines no longer accepts emotional support animals (ESAs) for travel, in line with updated U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. ESAs are now treated as pets, subject to standard pet policies and fees. However, trained psychiatric service dogs (PSDs) are still permitted to fly in the cabin at no additional charge. Passengers traveling with PSDs must submit the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form prior to travel, attesting to the dog’s training, health, and behavior.

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If you own a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD) or Emotional Support Animal (ESA) and have upcoming travel plans with Delta Airlines, you’re probably curious about their policies. What exactly is Delta’s current stance on ESAs? How does their pet policy come into play? And what about traveling with a service animal? In this guide, we’ll explore Delta Airlines’ ESA and service dog policies and your options for traveling with them. Get ready to travel smoothly and stress-free with your furry companion!

Key Points

Are Service Dogs Allowed on Delta? Service dogs are allowed in-cabin at no additional cost. However, they must meet service animal documentation requirements.
How to Add a Service Animal to a Delta Flight ? To add a service animal to your Delta flight, notify Delta Airlines while booking or by calling their customer service. Submit the necessary documentation at least 48 hours before your flight.
What is Delta’s ESA Policy? Delta no longer accepts emotional support animals. This aligns with the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) 2021 update, which no longer requires airlines to recognize ESAs as service animals. They can travel but will be recognized as pets and are subject to all Delta’s fees and policies.
Which Type of Pet is Allowed to Fly on Delta? According to Delta Airlines’ pet policy, small dogs, cats, and household birds can travel in the cabin for a fee. They must also fit inside a pet carrier that fits under the seat.
What are Delta Airlines’ Pet Carrier Restrictions? Delta Airlines requires the pet carriers to be ventilated and leak-proof. They must fit under the seat in front of you and allow your pet to move comfortably.
What is a PSD Letter? A PSD letter is a letter from a licensed healthcare professional that states you need an animal to alleviate the symptoms of your medical conditions. If Delta staff ask you to prove your need for a PSD, you may show this letter.
How Do I Get a PSD Letter? To get a psychiatric service dog letter, contact a licensed healthcare professional. They will evaluate your needs and provide you with a letter.

Does Delta Airlines Allow Psychiatric Service Dogs To Travel?

You can travel on Delta Airlines with your Psychiatric Service Dog. However, the dog must be fully trained to assist you with a disability. A service dog in training may travel with a professional trainer. Additionally, PSDs are exempt from pet restrictions, weight limits, and breed restrictions.

Dog with boarding pass and suitcase at airport terminal

Do Service Dogs Fly For Free On Delta Airlines?

Under the Delta Airlines service animal policy, PSDs can accompany their handlers in the aircraft cabin at no additional cost. Moreover, service animals do not count against your carry-on allowance. You can also carry their assistive devices free of charge. Whether occupied or not, your service animal’s kennel is considered an assistive device. Additional essential items for your service dog, such as a bed or food, can also be carried free of charge.

How To Book a Flight With Your Psychiatric Service Dog On Delta Airlines?

During the booking process, inform Delta that you will be traveling with a Psychiatric Service Dog. You can do this through the Airline’s website or by contacting customer service. Ensure that all necessary documentation is submitted. Moreover, arriving at the airport early allows ample time for check-in and any additional procedures related to traveling with a service animal.

What Documents Do You Need To Fly With Your PSD?

The airline requires passengers to submit the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Travel Form to fly with a psychiatric service dog. The form requires the passenger to provide information about the animal, including its vaccination record and completed training. Additionally, you must agree to have your service dog leashed or harnessed inside the airport and onboard the airplane.

For flights longer than 8 hours, the passenger must also submit the DOT’s Service Animal Relief Attestation Form. By completing this form, you certify that your psychiatric service dog will not relieve itself during the flight or can relieve itself in a sanitary manner.

In addition to these documents, you may need your PSD letter to verify your need for a psychiatric service dog. If officials ask for proof of your need for the animal, you may show this letter.

What Is A PSD Letter, And How Do You Get It?

A Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD) letter is a document written by a licensed mental health professional that certifies your need for a Psychiatric Service Dog. This letter is crucial for proving that your PSD is essential for your mental health and well-being, allowing you to bring your service dog on flights and access other public spaces where pets are typically not allowed.

To get a PSD letter, visit Fast ESA Letter and schedule your appointment with a licensed mental health professional. During the appointment, discuss your mental health condition and explain how a Psychiatric Service Dog helps you manage your symptoms and daily life. If they determine that a PSD is appropriate for your condition, you will get your PSD letter.

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Where Can I Submit the Documents?

For travel booked 48 hours or more before departure, you can submit the form online through the Accessibility Service Request Delta Airlines passenger portal.
For travel booked less than 48 hours before departure, you can present the documents at the check-in counter or departure gate.

What Are The Seating Requirements For Service Dogs On Delta Airlines?

Service dogs must be placed in the floor space below the seat or on your lap( if small enough). You may not sit in an exit row when traveling with a service animal. If you select an exit row seat, you’ll be reassigned to another seat at the gate. Service animals may not occupy another traveler’s space at any time.

If a single seat cannot accommodate both you and your service animal, you may:

Purchase an additional ticket so your service animal can use the floor space in front of the extra seat (make sure to buy both tickets together to get the same rate).
Check your service animal into the holding area below the cabin at no extra cost.

What Are The Rules For Traveling With Your Service Dog On International Flights?

Traveling with animals outside the U.S. is governed by strict regulations, so preparing well before your trip is best. Each country has its own set of rules and requirements, which can include quarantine periods, specific vaccinations, and health certificates. Consider these tips before you travel:

Research the destination country’s animal import regulations:
Contact the authority or embassy of your destination country for their animal travel regulations.
Obtain the necessary certificates:
Get all necessary vaccines and paperwork (such as health certificates or vaccination records).
Check with CDC and APHIS:
Review any regulations or advisories about animal imports or exports from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) or the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).

The CDC has specific requirements for all dogs, including trained service animals, traveling to the United States. Dogs entering the U.S. must be healthy, microchipped, and at least six months of age. A receipt of a completed CDC Dog Import Form must accompany all dogs. Your service dog may be subject to additional charges such as customs clearance fees, quarantine costs, etc.

The specific additional documentation needed will vary based on where the dog received its rabies vaccinations and whether the dog has been in a high-risk country for rabies or a low-risk/rabies-free country within the last 6 months.

Traveling Guide To South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand With Your Service Dog

Pets are not allowed as checked baggage to or from South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand due to concerns about animal safety and customs regulations. This restriction does not apply to service animals, which these countries recognize and allow in the cabin.

Traveling Guide To Hawaii

Hawaii requires all animals, including service dogs, that enter the state to have health certificates and rabies vaccinations dated no more than ten days before travel begins. Quarantine facilities are located only in Honolulu. Therefore, Delta can only accept animals on flights to Honolulu.

Are There Service Animal Relief Areas At Airports And Onboard?

All U.S. airports are required by law to provide a “pet relief area” where service animals and pets can use the bathroom. Some larger airports have more than one pet relief area. These areas are designed to meet the specific needs of the animals, providing a safe and clean environment for them to relieve themselves.

What Are the Vaccination Requirements For Service Dogs On Delta Airlines?

All service animals must be fully vaccinated and at least four months old. However, puppies can receive their rabies vaccination at three months old, followed by a mandatory 30-day waiting period for the vaccine to take full effect, allowing them to fly at four months. Dogs older than 15 months who have previously been vaccinated but have an expired rabies vaccine can travel immediately after receiving a rabies booster shot.

How Many Service Dogs Can Fly With a Traveler On Delta?

A person with a disability can travel with a maximum of two PSDs. It is the passenger’s responsibility to ensure adequate space to accommodate both animals. You may purchase extra seats to provide enough floor space to accommodate the additional animal. You should complete and submit the required DOT documents for each animal, ideally 48 hours or more before departure. If you book your tickets within 48 hours before departure, contact the airline.

Do The Regulations For Service Animals Vary From Citizen To Military Service?

Exceptions may apply to those in the U.S. Military or U.S. State Department Foreign Service Offices. Due to their unique travel circumstances, active-duty military members and foreign service officers may have specific accommodations or exemptions. It’s important to check with Delta Airlines for any special considerations or waivers that might apply. When traveling on official military orders, there may be specific provisions or allowances for service animals, which can vary depending on the nature and destination of the travel.

Is An Emotional Support Animal Allowed To Travel On Delta Airlines?

Delta’s ESA policy does not protect or recognize emotional support animals for travel. As a result, your ESA will be considered a pet. Because your ESA is regarded as a pet, you will not receive any special accommodations like those given to service dogs. Additionally, your ESA is subject to Delta Airlines’ pet policies. Delta Airlines has specific limits on the number of pets allowed per flight. For flights within the United States (except Hawaii), two pets are allowed in First Class, two in Business Class, and four in the Main Cabin.

Which Type Of Pet Or Animal Is Allowed On Delta?

Delta Airlines’ pet policy only allows small dogs, cats, and household birds. However, the pet must be able to fit in a soft-sided pet kennel underneath the seat in front of you. Additionally, your animal must be at least eight weeks old for domestic travel, six months old if traveling to the U.S. from another country, and a cat must be at least 16 weeks old. When traveling to the European Union, your pet must be at least 15 weeks old.

How Much Will I Need To Pay To Fly With My Pet?

The cost of flying with your pet varies depending on your destination. For flights within the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the fee is USD 95 or CAD 95. For international flights, the cost is USD 200, CAD 200, or EUR 200. If you are flying to or from Brazil, the fee is USD 75.

Are There Any Seating Restrictions While Traveling With A Pet?

According to the Delta pet policy, when traveling with carry-on pets, you cannot choose seats in the following locations:

Bulkhead seats
Emergency exit rows
Seats with no stowage

There are also sitting restrictions on specific aircraft. Some aircraft have seats that are not feasible for pets, and these seats and aircraft are:

Rows 46-51 on the A330-200 aircraft
Rows 54-59 on the A330-300 aircraft
Center seats on the B757-200 aircraft

What Are The Carry-On Kennel Requirements For Pets?

According to Delta’s pet carrier guidelines, only one pet is permitted per kennel. However, there are a few exceptions. A female cat or dog may travel with her unweaned litter, provided the litter is between 8 weeks and six months old. There is no limit on the number of pets in the litter as long as they can safely fit in the kennel.
Additionally, two pets of the same breed and size, aged between 8 weeks and six months, may share a kennel if they are small enough to fit comfortably and are compatible.
Pets traveling together in one kennel will be charged as a single pet. The kennel with the pets will count as your carry-on item. Additionally, you can bring one personal item on board the aircraft along with the kennel.
Your kennel must also adhere to the following Delta Airlines pet carrier restrictions:

Your animal must be small enough to fit comfortably in a kennel and able to move around freely.
The kennel must fit underneath the seat in front of you.
The kennel must be soft-sided and leak-proof. It must have ventilation openings on three sides for domestic travel and four sides for international travel.
The maximum size of the kennel is determined by the aircraft, as the under-seat space varies. Delta Airlines recommends a standard soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11”.

Can My Pet Travel In Cargo?

Currently, Delta Airlines only allows the shipment of pets for active U.S. Military or U.S. State Department Foreign Service Officers (FSO) traveling with active permanent change of station orders. To make the booking, they must contact the Delta Cargo Customer Service Center at 1-800-352-2746 (dial 711 for relay services). While booking, you must provide a copy of the permanent change of station orders.

Are There Any Breeds That Don’t Get Permits To Travel With Delta Airlines?

Delta Air Lines does not allow some animal species to board their plane, especially when traveling with brachycephalic (or “snub-nosed”) animals prone to breathing difficulties. They are at risk of health complications from the stress of flying. Here are the snub-nosed dogs and snub-nosed cats, which are restricted on the Delta Air Lines flight. Restricted Snub-nosed dog:

American Bulldog
American Staffordshire Terrier
American Pit Bull Terrier
Boston Terrier
Boxer
Brussels Griffin
Bulldog
Chinese Pug
Chow Chow
Dutch Pug
English Bulldog
English Toy Spaniel
French Bulldog
Lhasa Apso
Japanese Boxer
Japanese Pug
Japanese Spaniel (Chin)
Mastiff (all breeds)
Pekinese
Pit Bull
Pug
Shar Pei
Shih Tzu
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Tibetan Spaniel
Restricted Snub-nosed cat:
Burmese
Exotic
Himalayan
Persian

Your Service Dog Or Pet Should Behave Appropriately While Traveling With You On Delta Airlines

When traveling with a service animal or pet on Delta Airlines, it is essential to ensure that the animal behaves appropriately. The service dog or pet should be well-behaved and respond to commands promptly.
If they misbehave, Delta Airlines may refuse to transport your animal. Here are some key points to keep in mind regarding animal behavior on Delta Airlines:

Non-disruptive Behavior: Your animal should not display aggressive or disruptive behavior that may pose a risk to other passengers or Delta Airlines staff. This includes barking excessively, lunging, growling, or any other behavior that may cause distress to others.
Control and Restraint: It is crucial to maintain control over your pet. This means keeping them on a leash or harness and ensuring they are within your control. They should not roam freely in the Delta Airlines airport and cabin.
Cleanliness and Hygiene: Animals should be clean and well-groomed before the flight. They should not have any foul odor. Additionally, attending to your service dog’s toileting needs before and during the flight is essential to comply with Delta Airlines’ pet policy.
Disturbances and Interactions: While service dogs or pets are friendly, they should not interact with other passengers or Delta Airlines crew members without permission. This precaution helps prevent distractions and ensures a focused working environment for the service dog.

Remember, maintaining appropriate behavior is crucial for a smooth travel experience on Delta Airlines. By managing your animal behavior, you can help promote a positive and inclusive environment for all passengers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Travel With Multiple Service Dogs On Delta Airlines?

Yes, passengers with disabilities can travel with up to two Psychiatric Service Dogs. Ensure you submit the required documents for each dog and purchase an additional seat if space is insufficient for both animals.

Does Delta Airlines Require Specific Training For Psychiatric Service Dogs?

Yes, Delta Airlines requires that Psychiatric Service Dogs be trained to assist individuals with disabilities. They must be trained to perform specific tasks and demonstrate appropriate behavior in public spaces, such as staying calm, not barking unnecessarily, and remaining leashed at all times.

Can I Submit My Service Dog’s Documents In Person At The Delta Check-In Counter?

If your booking is made within 48 hours of departure, you can submit the required U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Travel Form at the check-in counter. Otherwise, it’s recommended to submit documents online to avoid delays or potential travel disruptions.

What Is Delta Airlines’ Policy On Emotional Support Cats?

Delta Airlines no longer recognizes emotional support cats as service animals. They can still travel as pets in the cabin if they meet Delta’s pet policy requirements, including being in an approved carrier and paying applicable fees.

What Is The Weight Limit For Service Dogs On Delta Airlines Flights?

Delta Airlines does not impose a weight limit on service dogs. However, the service dog must fit within the passenger’s seat space or the area beneath the seat without obstructing aisles or other passengers.

Can I Travel With A Service Dog In Delta Comfort+ Or First Class?

Yes, service dogs are allowed in all cabin classes, including Comfort+ and First Class, as long as they fit within the designated space. For larger service dogs, you may need to discuss seating arrangements with Delta’s customer service team.

How Far In Advance Should I Notify Delta About Traveling With A Service Dog?

You should notify Delta Airlines at least 48 hours before your flight to allow time for document submission and approval. For bookings made closer to departure, submit the forms at check-in.

Are Service Dog Vests Required When Flying With Delta Airlines?

No, service dog vests are not required, but they are recommended as they help identify your dog as a trained service animal. Delta may ask for documentation and behavior verification regardless of a vest.

Does Delta Airlines Allow Service Dogs On Connecting Flights?

Yes, Delta Airlines allows service dogs on connecting flights. Plan for adequate layover time to access pet relief areas between flights, especially for long-haul travel.

What Is Delta’s Policy On Service Dogs For Children With Disabilities?

Delta allows service dogs for passengers of all ages, including children with disabilities. Parents or guardians must ensure the dog behaves appropriately and meets all documentation and vaccination requirements.

Can I Request Extra Legroom If Traveling With A Service Dog On Delta Airlines?

Yes, you can request extra legroom or specific seating arrangements when booking your ticket or by contacting Delta’s accessibility services. Keep in mind that service dogs are not allowed in exit row seating.

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